MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) on May 17, 2025, officially confirmed an outbreak of Mpox in the country, reporting 78 laboratory-confirmed cases between January 1, 2024, and May 11, 2025. The announcement includes a total of 652 reported cases, with 572 suspected cases received by the lab for testing. Currently, one active case remains under observation, while 77 individuals have recovered, and one death has been recorded.
The breakdown of confirmed cases by county shows that Nimba County leads with 26 confirmed cases, followed by Lofa, Bong, and Rivercess Counties, each reporting 7 cases. Sinoe and Grand Bassa Counties reported 6 cases each, along with Montserrado County. Margibi has recorded 4 cases, while Maryland and Grand Cape Mount Counties reported 2 and 3 cases respectively. One case each has been confirmed in Grand Gedeh, Grand Kru, Bomi, and Gbarpolu Counties.
The NPHIL is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected Mpox cases immediately by calling the toll-free hotline 4455. Health authorities have not yet confirmed any cases from the most recent batch of 572 specimens sent for laboratory testing.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral illness that can spread from person to person through close contact. Symptoms often include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and while most cases are mild, it can be severe in vulnerable populations.
The NPHIL has activated its disease surveillance and response mechanisms across all affected counties and is working closely with local health teams, partners, and the Ministry of Health to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Residents are encouraged to maintain good hygiene, avoid close contact with infected individuals, and follow all health advisories.
